John Grade: Reclaimed

John Grade: Reclaimed showcases John Grade's unique approach to art through his drawings, sculptures, and installations. His works embody the essence of natural transformation, as they are crafted from reclaimed materials like wood and paper. These creations are subjected to the elements, often being buried for termites to consume, submerged in a bay to accumulate barnacles, or suspended in forest trees for birds to feast upon.

Grade's art reflects the ever-changing environment, inspired by his passion for travel and nature. His work mirrors patterns found in the natural world, such as wasp nests, erosion forms, honeycombs, rock formations, trees, and the inexorable passage of time. By inviting natural forces to alter and wear down his pieces, he explores the balance between control and disruption, risk and deliberate thought.

Each piece begins with an experience—whether prompted by a sense of place and history or through a journey into the landscape. These journeys might take him to the ancient forests of the Pacific Northwest or the rugged terrain of Iceland, offering a rich tapestry of inspiration that informs his artistic practice.